iConStruct

Sometimes, different icons or small images are needed for presentation purposes on a number of different platforms and forums. iConStruct is an application that allows users to take an image and convert it into a series of icons of different sizes and colorings.

Converting images to different icon formats can be done in several applications, but iConStruct makes it exceedingly simple. Any image that is dragged or loaded into the application is automatically converted into 32, 16 and 8 bit icons with the application making a bit mask instantly.

Users do not have to be well versed in the mechanics or even understand them to use the application, it takes care of all the hard work. iConStruct automatically displays previews of all the sizes offered in the main window constantly, so any change you make to any of the settings is displayed in real time.

This makes the application great for beginners who might not understand what a more technical setting does, but they can then see its effects applied instantly. The constant, updated previews make the application very user friendly and approachable.

The application offers a series of features that are almost all about the bit mask and how it interacts with the image. Since every size the application can make is displayed and produced as standard, there are no sizing options. This is good for display purposes and previews, but, if a specific size is needed, they will have to settle for an entire set - an unusual oversight.

The bit mask options are varied though and provide users with a good range of customization. Users will have no difficulty achieving the desired effect even with images that don’t resize properly to the icon dimensions. Different colored border options are available as well as a mask edge width that can aid in border control.

To conclude, the application is a good way to generate icons. iConStruct offers features that should satisfy an amateur who only needs to use it once or twice, to someone who makes icons on a regular basis needs more advanced features. The lack of a specific size option is its most obvious hurdle.